Pioneer DEH-P70BT Quick Review

[John32]

So since buying Louise an IPod for her birthday the need to connect it in the car has been looming!

I have the original Dension ICE-Link and although great audio the lack if ID-Tag information etc. is a bit of a pain. So I was looking at the alternatives and decided on the Pioneer DEH-P70BT and CD-IB100 which killed another ‘bird’ as it is also a Bluetooth hands free kit.

Replacing the Gamma and Single CD in the Louise’s MK4 Golf was not problem, only needing the constant +ve and Switch +ve to be reversed from the standard ISO connection.

I still had the original cubby hole from the Golf so that neatly filled the 2nd DIN hole. I decided to install the IPod interface under the dash in the passenger foot well with the IPod lead in the glove box.

First impressions are really good,

Audio quality is a step up from the Gamma

Bluetooth phone is excellent particularly as audio is routed through the main speakers

IPod interface is really good, although play-lists are easier to access than artist, album, etc.

Downsides…….

IMO most car hi-fi is just a bit ‘Chav’, the Pioneer is not the worst by any means but still. I decided to spray the facia surround matt black which has certainly improved the look and matched the Golf dash.

The Lead to connect the IPod is hard wired to the IB100 so would mean a new unit if the dock connector was damaged.

So the wife is happy – I am happy

[Snail]

Know what you mean about ICE being Chav.

I always have Alpine car stereo's because they sound fantastic, but at night, its like having a fireworks display in your car